Hi all,
Today I went to change a tire and noted that the engine subframe is rusted (See image. my phone cam is not good but the quality is good enough to show the trouble). I don't think its broken and I don't hear any rattling (or any other type of unusual) sounds. Yet I am worried whether this is bad enough and should get it fixed soon.

1. From the threads I've seen, there are various degrees of rust in the subframe. Some were instructed by technicians not to drive (bad cases) and some seem to have rusted subframes but have them regularly inspected. Is there a general way to check the condition of the subframe?

2. This seems to be rare and in some cases, the dealers have replaced the subframes with new ones (See Honda Accord 1998 - Suspension - car safety information, failing parts, recalls, bulletins, complaints). Does anyone have experience with such a replacement?

3. In case I have to bear the cost of the replacement, roughly what is the range? A casual Googling says roughly about 250 to 500 range.

4. Is there any 'rust prevention' I can do? (rustoleum?)

Thanks in advance for any replies.

 

Out of curiosity where do you live? Sure you dont have a fluid leak somewhere. Ive lived in some places that salted very heavily and never have seen anything like that.

 

Take it in and have it checked to be sure it's safe!If it is POR 15 is the best rust inhibitor there is.The Navy uses it.

 

To me, it looks like too much metal is gone. If it was my car I'd replace the subframe or have some metal welded into it.

 

Moey,

I live in Dayton OH - pretty much heavily salted during the winter. I made it a point to take the car to an automated car wash and do an underbody wash once it a while during the winters, yet never had these components checked.

I had the front brakes done (rotors and pads replaced) a few months ago. I'm sure the mechanics would have seen this but never mentioned it to me!

BTW there are no fluid leaks. I've seen several mentions about rerouting the air conditioner water outlet but I don't think this is related.

 

Jim
Thanks - I'll take it to a mechanics shop and have it inspected. My impression (after touching it) is that only the top part is gone (the frame is tubular) but that still compromises its strength. So I better get it looked at.

 

Well, it was just a quick judgement based on a photo. Good idea to get a mechanic to inspect it.

 

Hi all,
A quick update. I have a friend who is a car dealer and I took my car to one of his trusted mechanics. They advised me to get it replaced. I can get a used engine cradle / subframe for about $150 so I am going to go ahead with the replacement.

Thanks for all the replies. I'll see whether I can contribute a few more pictures of the rusted subframe for the benefit of others.

 

I'd be tempted to spray some rust-proofing stuff all over the new one, maybe even before you install it.